2013 Audi Q3 2.0L Diesel · PN63 BYH

Rear‑end brake wear and a series of suspension‑related advisories dominate the mechanical story of this 2013 Audi Q3, with the latest MOT on 21 February 2026 recording a pass but following a failure just three days earlier that highlighted significantly worn rear discs and pads, plus an ineffective front‑windscreen wiper. Earlier failures include a fractured off‑side rear coil spring in May 2024 and a cut near‑side rear tyre in May 2023, while recurring advisories over the past four years point to light oil misting from the front shock absorbers and progressive tyre wear on all four corners. The pattern shows intermittent major failures interspersed with advisory‑only passes, suggesting that critical wear items have resurfaced repeatedly rather than being fully resolved. At 98,795 mi the vehicle averages roughly 7,600 mi per year, a mileage rate that sits within normal UK usage for a thirteen‑year‑old car. The MOT history shows roughly annual testing with no long gaps, indicating the odometer reading is likely reliable. This level of mileage aligns with the observed wear on brake discs, pads and tyres, and it also explains the emergence of suspension component fatigue such as the coil‑spring fracture and shock‑absorber oil misting, as higher cumulative miles increase stress on these parts. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear braking system: inspect disc thickness for scoring or thinning, verify pad material remains above the 1.5 mm safety limit, and feel for any pulsation or grinding under braking that could indicate rotor run‑out or uneven wear. The front‑windscreen wiper should be tested for effective clearing, especially in wet conditions, as the recent major failure suggests a functional deficiency. Tyre condition must be examined closely for cuts, sidewall cracking and tread depth on all wheels; the vehicle has a history of cuts and tread approaching the legal minimum, so any tyre below 1.6 mm should be replaced immediately. Front shock absorbers should be checked for oil leakage or misting, which can manifest as a soft, bottoming‑out ride or uneven rebound, and the rear anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joint on the near‑side should be inspected for play that may cause clunking over bumps. The off‑side rear coil spring, previously recorded as fractured, should be examined for cracks or fatigue, and any sagging or uneven rear ride height would be a clear symptom of a compromised spring. Given the recent MOT pass but the proximity of a failure on the same weekend, it is prudent to budget for rear brake refurbishment, a full tyre set replacement, and a comprehensive suspension overhaul that addresses the front shock oil mist, the rear anti‑roll‑bar linkage, and the off‑side rear coil spring. A qualified pre‑purchase inspection that includes brake disc measurement, tyre tread profiling, suspension bounce and noise tests, and a functional check of the windscreen wiper will provide the necessary confirmation of roadworthiness before committing to purchase.